The St. Regis Hotel's Designs on Manhattan

When the St. Regis New York invited Tomas Maier to create a 1,700-square-foot suite, he simply used his seasoned sensibility as a world traveler—and pieces from Bottega Veneta’s new furniture line, available in its store around the corner (699 Fifth Ave.; 212/371-5511). The result?A subtle palette, with photographs by Slim Aarons and Tina Barney, and even sleek Do Not Disturb signs designed by Maier himself. Below, the style guru shares his unique approach.

Workstations

"They make me cringe. Faxes and computers are out of sight; instead of a desk, there’s a Bottega Veneta dining table with a woven leather top."

On TV’s

"There’s one in every room—but for convenience, not entertainment. But then, I'm European; I prefer good conversation to television."

Mood Lighting

"I don’t like overlit rooms. When you do lighting right it changes the mood completely. Everything in the suite is on a dimmer."

Spanish Secret

"Whenever I can, I visit the Zurbarán paintings at the Prado. They have a vast collection of the painter, who is known for his depiction of nuns, monks, and martyrs." (Paseo del Prado, Madrid; 34/90-210-7077)